Dr. David Rich Hentzel Sr.

Dr. David Rich Hentzel, Sr, 85 of Canton, GA, formally of Rolla, MO passed away September 12, 2018. David was born on August 8, 1933 in Keokuk, IA to the late Marvin and Martha “Honey” Hentzel. After graduating from high school, David joined the United States Air Force and honorably served during the Korean War. In 1967 he earned his PhD in Economics from Southern Illinois University. He specialized in Money & Banking, Monetary Policy and Economic Development. David loved classroom teaching and enjoyed a career as an Economics Professor that spanned over 40 years. In the 1980’s, while at UMR, he collaborated in the economic revival of Cuba, MO and wrote, “Apples and Shoes”, detailing the economic history of the town which was characteristic of small Midwest towns, as it evolved from its apple growing agricultural roots to shoe factories to industrial parks. The project was featured in a full-page New York Times story on December 19, 1986.

Dr. Hentzel’s proudest achievement was overcoming great resistance to begin an innovative and controversial college education program in the Missouri state penitentiary system. He logged thousands of miles in the mid ‘70’s traveling from Rolla to Jefferson City weekly to teach the first college course, which later was expanded to more course offerings by others and eventually an early release campus program. He believed that education of every kind was key to rehabilitation and that anyone willing to sit through hours every week of lectures in economics- “the dismal science” – must be sincere about improving their lives.

David was a devoted husband and father and a doting granddad. He was a lifelong Cub fan and got to see his Cubbies win after 108 years of losing.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Jean; children, David Rish Hentzel, Jr. (Teresa), Amy Jo Yoakum (Micahel), Adam Hentzel and Jim Ide; grandchildren, Wesley, Alaida, Zachary and Grayce Hentzel, Emily Latham, Katie Ide Crank, Jennifer and Kristen Ide. He will be missed by his favorite sister-in-law, Petra Parker; niece, Quincy and nephew, Bremen (Shannon). David was preceded in death by his brother, John Irwin Hentzel and son David Ide. Also his brother, Paul. Please visit www.woodstockfuneralhome.com to leave online condolences.